With recommendations from Roger S. & Fabio S., I have been to Tan Tan Noodle Bar twice and I am quite pleased with my experience.
Ok, to start with, lets get comparisons out of the way - it's not as cheap as Aska (a regular lamen here costs around R$ 32) and as compared to Lamen Kazu, the soup is different and the portions are smaller but thats where the comparison factor ends.
Tan Tan's major advantages over these 2 traditional Liberdade lamen houses are location and the service. I really like the Pinheiros area where TanTan is located and the service, right from the time when you get in the waitlist until the time you walk out is very cordial and effective - the hostess, the servers, the bartender and the cooks are extremely polite. The place is quite small, so going in big groups can make waiting times extremely long - I would recommend maximum of 3-4 people.
Both times that I went, I sat the bars.
- the first time at the cocktail bar area where I had a great Lexington cocktail with a better bourbon (they upcharged me R$ 3 for moving from Wild Turkey 81 to Woodford Reserve). While waiting we ordered their Gyozas (grill roasted pork dumplings) which they serve in the waiting area also, albeit in a tin foil container. Once inside we ordered Tebá -the house chicken wings - they are quite well prepared but I wished it were more spicy. The portions are good to be shared by 2. I ordered the Tantan Lamen which was extremely delicious and spiced correctly. I did add some extra spice but that's me - its fine the way there seve it too.
- the second time, we sat at the noodle bar (where we saw them making the lamen and other dishes). We repeated the Gyozas and I tried the Karê lamen this time - another well balance lamen and if you like the taste of japanese curry, you will certainly enjoy this one. Its quite mild in the spice department but well well balanced.
The lamen portions at Tan Tan are just right for 1 person - with a shared starter the amount of food just sits right with me. I simply love their bowls and plates - apparently specially crafted by one Studio Neves. The decor is welcoming, the service is quick and polite - what else can one ask for ?
Definitely one of those places where I will be returning. read more